With its spiky skyscrapers dividing the UAE desert from the Persian Gulf, Dubai vies for the crown of the world’s most futuristic metropolis. Yet, while many of the best things to do in Dubai involve its space-age architecture, there’s plenty else here. After admiring the iconic Burj Khalifa (and its companion Dubai Fountain), Burj Al-Arab, and Palm, travelers can get the Middle East experience exploring the Arabian Desert on camel rides. There are water parks, theme parks, and beaches to enjoy. And there’s always plenty of time to lounge on Jumeirah Beach, hit shopping destinations like the Dubai Mall, and get glam in the city’s luxury hotels. Don’t forget to rewind to the past in the city’s shaded souks, Dubai museums, and historic Bur Dubai district.
The city is like an oven from May through August, prompting most travelers to stay away. As a consequence, the city’s more comfortable winters and shoulder seasons, which fuse cooler temperatures with near-guaranteed sunshine, lure the most visitors. During this time (October through April), the city is at its most crowded and expensive. But it’s also at its buzziest best. Wintry things to do in Dubai range from the Shopping Festival and New Year’s Eve fireworks to concerts and arts festivals.
Dubai’s tourist attractions are widely dispersed, which, when coupled with the city’s often-stifling heat, makes sightseeing on foot challenging. Although renting a car is an option, it can be daunting to drive the city’s multi-lane highways. For that reason, using taxis and ride-hailing apps like Careem is easiest for shorter trips. If you’re traveling long distances between different areas of the city, public transport comes into its own. You can buy and preload the local Nol Card to ride the local metro trains and public buses.
One of the best things to do in Dubai is explore its emerging outdoor market scene. Leading the charge is the Ripe Market, a community souk of up-and-coming food, craft, and creative entrepreneurs and vendors. Exploring one of these markets is a great way to bag homemade delicacies and one-off handicrafts, as well as enjoy family-friendly shows, workshops, and music. Make time to visit the flagship version of Ripe, held every winter Saturday and Sunday at the Academy Park. It makes a refreshing break from the city’s big, modern malls.
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Downtown Dubai’s futuristic architecture is unmissable, with the 2,723-feet (830-meter) Burj Khalifa skyscraper. Then there’s the sail-shaped Burj Al-Arab and mighty Atlantis hotel on Palm Jumeirah. Hot on their heels—and we mean hot—is the Dubai desert. an ocean of orange dunes, it feels light years from the city’s high-rises and is ideal for thrill seekers.
...MoreAfter admiring the city’s mega-buildings, there are plenty more things to do in Dubai. Ride a camel or 4WD in the desert before a barbecue under the stars. Get glam at the Dubai Marina, roam scented souks, and chill on a yacht or dhow (wooden boat) cruise on the Dubai Creek. Or simply absorb the vibe at the pool and ocean.
...MoreDress codes are more relaxed than you might expect. At pools and beaches, swimwear is acceptable. Dress more modestly inside hotels, malls, and restaurants by covering knees and shoulders—although shorts are usually okay. In souks and mosques, avoid sleeveless tops, shorts, and sandals. Mosques require women to wear head coverings.
...MoreDubai is known for its extravagant skyscrapers, opulent hotels, showy malls, and top-notch restaurants—and the A-lister lifestyle organically entwined with them. Other signature attractions include its crop of all-singing theme and water parks. In stark contrast is its desert, and the verdant beauty of the Dubai Miracle Garden.
...MoreYes, non-Muslim tourists can drink alcohol here. If you’re over 21, feel free to imbibe at licensed hotels, restaurants, and bars. However, alcohol is illegal in public places, including public beaches, and can trigger severe fines or prosecution. Note that during Ramadan most licensed venues won’t serve alcohol until early evening.
...MoreYes, the city is expensive. Lavish hotels and luxe lifestyles are synonymous with the city, although it’s still possible to budget in the emirate. Target the city’s Deira area for inexpensive hotels and eateries used by Middle Easterners. There are also numerous free and low-cost attractions, including public beaches, souks, museums and creek boat rides.
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